From Graduation to Greater Service: A New Chapter Begins

By James Okethwengu

On 17th July 2026, I will celebrate one of the most significant milestones of my life as I graduate in Public Administration and Management. This achievement represents far more than the award of an academic qualification.
it is the culmination of years of perseverance, sacrifice, discipline, and an unwavering belief that education is a powerful tool for transforming individuals, communities, and nations.


My academic journey has taught me that true leadership is founded on integrity, accountability, transparency, and selfless service. Every lecture attended, every assignment completed, and every challenge overcome has strengthened my conviction that public administration is not merely a profession but a calling to serve people with honesty, fairness, and dedication.


As I mark this important occasion, I also extend my congratulations to Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chairman of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), for his commitment to the fight against corruption in Uganda. Corruption continues to undermine development, weaken public institutions, and deny citizens the quality of services they deserve. Efforts to promote accountability, transparency, and responsible leadership are essential for building a stronger and more prosperous nation.


As a committed member of PLU, I consider my graduation not as the end of an academic journey but as the beginning of a greater responsibility. The knowledge and skills I have acquired in Public Administration and Management have equipped me with a deeper understanding of ethical governance, policy implementation, institutional accountability, and effective public service. I remain committed to applying these principles in my personal and professional life and to supporting lawful and constructive efforts that promote integrity, accountability, and good governance for the benefit of all Ugandans.


This achievement would not have been possible without the support of my family, lecturers, mentors, classmates, friends, and everyone who believed in my potential. Their encouragement transformed obstacles into opportunities and inspired me to remain focused on my goals.


As I walk across the graduation stage on 17th July 2026, I do so with humility, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to serve my country with professionalism and integrity. The certificate I receive will symbolize years of hard work, but its true value will be measured by how I use the knowledge gained to contribute positively to Uganda's development.


Graduation is not the destination,it is the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning, leadership, and service. With faith, determination, and a deep sense of national duty, I look forward to playing my part in building a more accountable, transparent, and prosperous Uganda for present and future generations.


"Education equips the mind, integrity guides the heart, and service defines true leadership."


Happy Graduation to the Class of 2026

Nebbi Diocese Celebrates Historic Ordination of Five Deacons and Six Priests at Immaculate Heart of Mary Cathedral

Thousands of Christians from across Nebbi Diocese and beyond gathered yesterday at Immaculate Heart of Mary Cathedral, Nebbi, for a solemn and joyous Eucharistic celebration during which Rt. Rev. Dr. Constantine Rupiny, Bishop of Nebbi Diocese, ordained five seminarians to the Diaconate and six deacons to the Holy Priesthood.


The celebration brought together clergy, religious men and women, government officials, cultural leaders, families of the ordinands, and faithful from various parishes, all united in witnessing this significant milestone in the life of the Catholic Church.


In his homily, Bishop Rupiny urged the newly ordained ministers to embrace humility, prayer, integrity, and selfless service. He reminded them that the vocation to the priesthood and diaconate is a sacred calling that demands steadfast commitment to proclaiming the Gospel, serving God’s people, and becoming instruments of peace, hope, and reconciliation in their communities.


The ordination was marked by prayer, thanksgiving, and celebration as the faithful welcomed the new deacons and priests into their respective ministries. Family members and well-wishers expressed gratitude to God for the gift of vocations, describing the occasion as a blessing not only to Nebbi Diocese but also to the Universal Church.


Among the distinguished guests in attendance was Hon. Biyika Lawrence Songa, who joined the faithful in celebrating the newly ordained clergy. He congratulated the ordinands and commended Nebbi Diocese for its continued commitment to nurturing vocations and strengthening the spiritual foundation of society.


Comment from Hon Songa
“I warmly congratulate the five newly ordained deacons and the six newly ordained priests on this profound and grace-filled milestone in your lives. Your response to God’s call is a great blessing to Nebbi Diocese, the West Nile region, and Uganda as a whole. May your ministry be marked by humility, faithfulness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to Christ and His Church. I also extend my sincere appreciation to Bishop Constantine Rupiny, the clergy, and the entire faithful for their steadfast commitment to nurturing vocations and building a stronger, more spiritually grounded society. May God bless and guide our new ministers as they begin this sacred journey of service.”